We all know that you could face criminal punishment for violating a law. But what punishment do you face if you post bail, then commit another serious crime while out on bail? In California, this could lead to even more severe punishment.
A defendant who is released on bail or on his or her own recognizance will face serious additional punishment if it is proven that he committed a new offense while the first case is still pending.
What Happens if You Commit a Felony While on Bail?
California Penal Code Section 12022.1 provides that a defendant who commits a crime while released pending another criminal matter “shall be subject to a penalty enhancement of an additional two years in state prison which shall be served consecutive to any other term imposed by the court.” Furthermore, this section states that the enhancement can be added to the second offense or the first offense.
In simpler terms, this means that if you commit a felony while you are out on bail and your criminal case is still pending, an additional two years of prison or jail time could be added to your sentence for the original offense. However, if the second offense you committed carries a harsher punishment, the judge could choose to make you serve a sentence for that crime, plus the additional two-year enhancement.
This is why it is extremely important that you speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney before you post bail so that your attorney can help you navigate the bail process and explain what happens after you post bail.
Call the Criminal Defense Attorneys at Wallin & Klarich
If you or a loved one has been arrested for a crime, you need to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney right away. If you retain a skilled attorney, you will be entitled to an 8% bail bond rate rather than the 10% rate you would have to pay without an attorney. Additionally, your criminal lawyer at Wallin & Klarich will aggressively defend you against these charges. Our attorneys have over 30 years of experience successfully defending our clients facing criminal charges. Hiring our law firm will help you get the best possible outcome in your case.
We have offices in Orange County, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside, San Bernardino, Ventura, Victorville and West Covina so that we can help you no matter where you work or live. We know the local courts and their unique processes throughout Southern California.
Call our offices today at (888) 280-6839 for a free phone consultation. We will get through this together.